Contact Information
Estelle Bakery and Patisserie
2530 Arden Way
Sacramento, CA 95825
Everyday 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Backstory
Before diving into my experience at Estelle Bakery and Patisserie, let’s set the stage with a little backstory. My journey to this delightful French bakery and pâtisserie was a mix of recommendations from friends and online reviews. A close friend of mine, a culinary enthusiast, couldn’t stop raving about the exquisite pastries and artisan bread at Estelle. Meanwhile, a quick online search revealed an impressive aggregate of positive reviews that piqued my curiosity. With a tantalizing promise of mouthwatering pastries, I couldn’t resist but pay a visit. So, read on as I share my personal experience and insights into this charming bakery.
About this Restaurant
Estelle is a hidden gem nestled in Sacramento, offering a warm and inviting ambiance that instantly transports you to a cozy French patisserie. With a commitment to quality, this bakery takes pride in crafting their baked goods on-site, using the freshest local ingredients available. The mastermind behind Estelle is none other than owner Esther Son, whose passion for pastries traces back to her childhood days. Despite not being a professionally trained chef, Esther’s creative flair shines through in the delectable macarons, artisan bread, and French-style pastries that Estelle offers.
Esther’s personal journey is inspiring – from her childhood love of desserts to studying business and international relationships. She even ventured into electronics and ran a medical corporation before realizing her lifelong passion for pastries. She eventually found her calling with Estelle in 2011, where she continued to expand the menu with traditional European desserts and her own unique twists inspired by her favorite destinations, such as Hawaii.
Estelle’s team is a dedicated group of individuals, each contributing their expertise to the bakery’s success. Pastry Chef Hettie Bresnan, Lead Artisan Baker Raphael Duperron, and Food & Beverage Director Charlin Wright all bring their unique skills and experiences to the table, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for visitors. Bobby Eberly, the Production and Wholesale Manager, rounds out the team with his journey from an unrelated field to overseeing the bakery’s production.
How is Parking?
One of the practical aspects of visiting any restaurant or bakery is the parking situation. Estelle Bakery and Patisserie, fortunately, provides ample parking space for its patrons. You won’t have to worry about the hassle of finding a parking spot, making your visit all the more convenient.
Food I Tried
Now, let’s delve into the heart of my experience – the food. Estelle offers a diverse range of tantalizing dishes, but I had the pleasure of savoring two standout options:
- Korean Brisket – This dish featured thin sliced brisket, generously coated in a flavorful Korean BBQ sauce, and topped with swiss cheese, jalapeño, and a zesty spicy mayo. The combination of smoky, tender brisket and the punch of Korean flavors created a mouthwatering fusion of tastes. The subtle heat from the jalapeño and the creaminess of the swiss cheese balanced the dish beautifully. It’s a must-try for those looking for a savory delight with a twist.
- Croque Monsieur – A French classic, the Croque Monsieur at Estelle is a culinary masterpiece. It showcases French Jambon, a velvety béchamel spread, and gruyère, all sandwiched between slices of their house-made pain de mie. The result is a symphony of flavors and textures, with the gooey, cheesy interior complementing the perfectly toasted bread. It’s comfort food taken to a whole new level.
Quality of the Food
The quality of the food at Estelle Bakery and Patisserie is undeniably impressive. The dedication to using fresh, local ingredients shines through in each bite. The Korean Brisket was a delightful surprise, perfectly marrying the tenderness of the brisket with the bold flavors of Korean BBQ sauce. The Croque Monsieur, on the other hand, delivered the quintessential French experience, with a crispy exterior and a lusciously cheesy interior. It’s evident that the culinary team at Estelle takes great pride in their craft, resulting in consistently outstanding food.
How It Compares to Competitors
When it comes to comparing Estelle to its competitors, it’s essential to acknowledge that Estelle’s focus on quality and unique flavor profiles sets it apart. The commitment to using fresh, local ingredients and the creative twists in their dishes make them a true standout. While there are other bakeries and patisseries in Sacramento, Estelle’s dedication to delivering a memorable culinary experience is evident in every bite, setting it apart from the competition.
What Should I Be Aware Of
For those planning to visit Estelle Bakery and Patisserie, there are a few things to keep in mind. While the food and ambiance are exceptional, the bakery can get quite busy during peak hours. Be prepared to wait a bit, but I assure you it’s worth it. Additionally, if you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions, it’s advisable to check with the staff for suitable options, as the menu is primarily centered around French and fusion pastries.
What People Are Saying About This Restaurant
Based on various Yelp and Google reviews, it’s clear that I’m not the only one who fell in love with Estelle Bakery and Patisserie. Customers from near and far have praised the delightful pastries, artisan bread, and the unique fusion dishes on offer. The friendly staff and welcoming ambiance have also left a lasting impression on many visitors. It’s heartening to see that my experience aligns with the consensus – Estelle is a true culinary gem in Sacramento.
Final Thought
My visit to Estelle Bakery and Patisserie was a delightful journey through the world of French pastries and fusion delights. The dedication to quality and the creative flair of the culinary team, led by owner Esther Son, shine through in every dish. While there might be a bit of a wait during busy hours, the experience is well worth it. Whether you’re a fan of classic French pastries or crave something with a unique twist, Estelle has something to offer. It’s a place where passion meets pastry, and it’s a journey for your taste buds that you won’t soon forget.
